Arthur Cummings

About Arthur Cummings

Your three wishes?

First, peace on earth and increased tolerance among people. Yes, really! I know it’s a Miss Universe contestant answer, but it's one of mine, too. Second, the ability to save, manage, create and manipulate time. It's passing too quickly! Third, that common sense was more common.

Piece of advice for your younger self?

Learn self-awareness as early as possible, and always exercise empathy. Focus on the “verb” – the art of continuing to practice, to learn, to endure the challenges and to get better. Focusing on the “noun,” like becoming a “consultant ophthalmologist” takes away from the verb – the action of getting there and honing your craft. Enjoy the journey – this is where life happens. It doesn't happen at the destination, it happens along the way.

The funniest moment of your career?

One of the funniest moments was when a good friend once said that he knew too many “I-doctors” and not enough good “eye doctors.” He eventually landed under my laser one day and thankfully labelled me an “eye doctor, E, Y, E,” much to my delight and my team’s amusement and astonishment, directly after the procedure. I’m guessing the team figured he knew I was an “eye doctor” prior to his procedure.

The most unexpected turn your career took?

Being appointed to the board of directors of Alcon was undoubtedly the most unexpected turn in my career thus far. It’s not something that you can consciously work towards or aspire to. It simply came out of left field and I am very grateful for it, and relishing the opportunity.